Education Laws and Regulations

Notice of Public Comment for 603 CMR 57.00

Pursuant to its authority under M.G.L. c. 69, section 1B, and in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, M.G.L. c. 30A, § 3, the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (Board) is soliciting public comment on proposed regulations, 603 CMR 57.00, Standards for Interpretation and Translation Services in Schools.

The proposed regulations reflect the amendments to G.L. c. 69, section 1B as set forth in section 25 of Chapter 14 of the Acts of 2025.

The board shall promulgate regulations establishing standards for the provision of interpretation and translation services, including standards for the qualification of interpreters and translators, to limited English proficient parents and legal guardians of all public school students. Such regulations shall include but not be limited to the following qualifications: (i) bilingualism; (ii) knowledge in both languages of specialized terms or concepts; (iii) training for interpreters and translators; (iv) ethics of interpreting and translating; and (v) the need to maintain confidentiality.

Copies of the proposed regulations are available on the Department's website at Public Comment Submission Page, or by calling 781-338-3111. Public comments may be submitted online by completing this form , or by email to BESERegulationComments@mass.gov or by mail to: Regulations Public Comment, c/o Commissioner's Office, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, 135 Santilli Highway, Everett, MA 02149. The deadline to submit public comment is Friday, April 24, 2026, at 5:00 pm. The Board is expected to vote on the proposed regulations at its regular monthly meeting in June 2026.